Are You Ready to Return to Work?

Earning Certificate of Recognition for your Return-to-Work Program

IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Effective June 30, 2013, WorkSafeBC has instituted a temporary freeze on any new Return to Work (RTW) COR certifications. Employers who are currently actively engaged in the program and are interested in obtaining the RTW certification have until June 30, 2013 to complete their audit. They must submit the Notice of Audit Activities form to go2 by February 22, 2013, indicating their commitment to obtaining their certification. For more information, please contact Michael Guzmicky, COR Program Manager by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or telephone at 604-633-9787 ext. 220.

Once you have an effective safety management system (SMS) in place, you have the option of implementing an injury management/return-to-work (RTW) program.

A RTW program helps injured workers return to meaningful, productive work in a safe and timely manner, or even stay on the job while performing modified duties. Once you have achieved COR for your SMS program, achieving COR for your RTW program entitles you to an additional five per cent rebate on your WorkSafeBC premiums.

Components of an RTW program

Here are the things that an auditor will be assessing during the COR audit:

  • Commitment by senior management to the program;
  • Communication about the program and its benefits to workers and supervisors;
  • Resources, education and training to support the program;
  • Planning for reintegration of injured workers;
  • Early intervention strategies in the event of injury;
  • Reporting, documentation and follow-up of all work-related injuries;
  • Overall program administration.

When you are preparing for the audit of your RTW program, detailed documentation of your policies and procedures, as well as education, training, outcome and tracking records, will help expedite the process.